Regenerative media filtration

ABSTRACT

A regenerative filter that includes a filter housing having inlet and outlet zones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones; a plurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter media applied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminants from the fluid path; and a tube sheet that is supported across the filter housing, that is disposed just before the outlet zone and that provides the support for the plurality of filter elements. The plurality of filter elements are disposed in an array and includes bridging members or elements that connect between adjacent filter elements, and that forms with the filter elements, a closed interstitial space between adjacent filter elements for liquid flow; a nanoscale barrier on interior surfaces, including that of the regenerative media itself, providing a mechanism to disrupt the cell wall of microscopic viruses and organisms.

RELATED CASES

Priority for this application is hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e)to commonly owned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/647,006filed Mar. 23, 2018 and 62/655,468 which was filed on Apr. 10, 2018, andeach of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to improvements insubcomponents that form a regenerative media filter; particularlysubcomponents within the gas and liquid filtration housing of theregenerative media filter. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to an improvement and optimization of the construction ofinterdependent components of the regenerative media filter. Even moreparticularly the present invention relates to the relative proximity andsizing of individual filter elements or components including theprovision, in one embodiment, of a monolithic honeycomb-type filtrationstructure. The improved structure of the present invention moreoverprovides optimization of the filtration zone enabling economizations ofthe various components within the filter, and provides means to removeessentially all of the entrained air from within the filter.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the field of gas and liquid filtration, there is a device known as aregenerative media filter. This particular type of filter typically hasa housing for pressure filtration, and employs a grannular orparticulate type of filtration media such as, but not limited to,diatomaceous earth or perlite, an amorphous volcanic glass which has theunusual property of greatly expanding when heated sufficiently andproviding a massive filtration surface area. In operation the media isdeposited on elements which are suspended from a tube sheet. The tubesheet and elements coated with filtration media forms a demarcation orboundary. On the inlet or influent side of the filter the fluid carriesparticulate contamination which gets filtered out of suspension as thefluid crosses the boundary created by the media covered element. Theflow passes through the element and the tube sheet to the collectionplenum and out the filter outlet or effluent connection.

By way of example, refer to U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,715,033; 4,609,462 and5,128,038 which describe various filter constructions in which thefilter tubes are supported by the tube sheet essentially forming aboundary region by which filtration or even heat exchange can beaffected. In a typical regenerative media filter, the spacing of thefilter elements are at least the width of the filter elements apart. Inthis regard refer to the prior art diagram in FIG. 1 that is describedhereinafter. This geometry balances the filter area against disruptiveturbulence transmitted from the filter influent to the filter effluent,traversing the media/element boundary and depositing particulate largerthan the media pore size. To prevent turbulence of these independentlysuspended filter elements, which is extended, inlet and buffer zones areused.

Counterintuitively, and in accordance with an object of the presentinvention, configuring the filter elements and the volumetricregenerative filter media to achieve consistent coverage of the filterelements is by means of controlled bridging that substantiallyeliminates the effect of influent turbulence. This is achieved inaccordance with the present invention by providing, in one embodimentthereof, a monolithic honeycomb structure that outperforms heretoforeknown filter element geometries.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide animproved filter element configuration that is an improvement overexisting filter element constructions in order to reduce turbulencewithin the filter structure while also reducing in particular the volumeand height of the filter housing; including a reduction in the size ofthe inlet, outlet and buffer zones.

Still another object of the present invention to provide an improvedfilter element configuration that is an improvement over existing filterelement constructions and that can be provided in any one of a number ofdifferent embodiment, all of which enable the construction of a smallerfilter structure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To accomplish the foregoing and other objects, features and advantagesof the present invention there is provided an improved regenerativemedia filter structure and associated method of manufacturing such aregenerative media filter, while solving the above mentioned problemsassociated with present regenerative media filter constructions. Thepresent invention solves the problem by achieving high fluid flowsunaffected by turbulence that plagues the current state-of-the-art ofregenerative media filtration.

For the present invention the same end-use regenerative media filterwill filter a greater volume of fluid in a substantially reducedvolumetric footprint. The economy of filter size translates into theinstallation in previously height-restricted areas. This heightreduction translates to a lower influent and effluent connection heightwhich translates to pump head pressure reduction; thus translating intofiltration energy savings presently unachievable due to the additionalheight of the prior art regenerative media filters.

Concurrent to the fluid filtration improvements are improvements to themechanical structure of the filter shell, sealing zone subcomponents,and method to articulate the tube sheet in the fluid stream. The problemof entrained air in liquid filtration applications has been solved witha novel flanging arrangement with a clever path engineered to captureentrained air and direct it out of the filter.

Additional improvement was effected by articulating the tube sheetelement assembly by means of a self-contained cylinder, that which has apiston attached to a shaft that penetrates the tank through a sealarrangement that is inherently safe in that any leakage from the powerside of the cylinder, be it air or hydraulically operated, will leak toatmosphere and not to the process fluid as is the risk of the currentstate-of-the-art regenerative media filters.

In accordance with the present invention as described herein there isalso provided numerous embodiments which are presented as having varyingelement profiles, lengths, and planar spacing, which when combined withthe appropriate regenerative media will maintain the highest levels ofregenerative media filtration while minimizing the filter height and/orfilter width profile.

In accordance with the present invention there is provided aregenerative filter comprising: a filter housing having inlet and outletzones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones; and aplurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter mediaapplied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminantsfrom the fluid path. The plurality of filter elements is disposed in anarray and includes bridging members or elements that connect betweenadjacent filter elements, and that forms with the filter elements, aclosed interstitial space between adjacent filter elements.

In accordance with other aspects of the present invention the bridgingelement or member includes at least three bridging elements that form,with three adjacent filter elements, the closed interstitial space; eachfilter element may be circular in cross-section; the closed interstitialspace has three sides as defined by the bridging elements or members;the filter element may be a single layer filter element or a doublelayer filter element; including a coil spring that is disposed withinthe filter element, and wherein the array is formed in a honeycombpattern; and wherein the coil spring comprises a compression springwound helix that may be pre-compressed to maintain a taught sheath andprevent differential pressure collapse as the filter element becomesloaded with filtrate, and nominally has a wound diameter with staggeredor equally spaced larger.

In accordance with the present invention there is also provided aregenerative filter comprising: a filter housing having inlet and outletzones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones; aplurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter mediaapplied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminantsfrom the fluid path; and a tube sheet that is supported across thefilter housing, that is disposed just before the outlet zone and thatprovides the support for the plurality of filter elements. The pluralityof filter elements is disposed in an array and includes bridgingelements that couple between adjacent filter elements, and that formswith the filter elements, a closed interstitial space between adjacentfilter elements.

In accordance with still other aspects of the present invention thebridging element or member includes a wall member that extends betweenadjacent filter elements; the bridging element include at least threewall members that form with three adjacent filter elements said closedinterstitial space; the plurality of filter elements are constructed andarranged in a honeycomb pattern; the bridging element or member isformed by a contact location between adjacent filter elements; theadjacent filter elements have different geometries.

In accordance with the present invention there is further provided aregenerative filter comprising: a filter housing having inlet and outletzones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones; aplurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter mediaapplied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminantsfrom the fluid path; and a tube sheet that is supported across thefilter housing, that is disposed just before the outlet zone and thatprovides the support for the plurality of filter elements. The pluralityof filter elements are disposed in an array wherein adjacent filterelements are disposed in a monolithic array in which adjacent filterelements are disposed in close relative proximity, but defining a gaptherebetween.

In accordance with still further aspects of the present invention theadjacent filter elements have different geometries; some of the filterelements are circular and other ones of the filter elements are square;some of the filter elements are circular and other ones of the filterelements are square; the gap between adjacent filter elements is lessthan a width of the filter element; and wherein there is a maximumtangential geometric proximity of ⅕ the minimum cross-sectional distanceacross a single filter element, or less.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It should be understood that the drawings are provided for the purposeof illustration only and are not intended to define the limits of thedisclosure. In the drawings depicting the present invention, alldimensions are to scale. The foregoing and other objects and advantagesof the embodiments described heron will become apparent with referenceto the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a prior art schematic side elevation view of a regenerativemedia filter showing fluid paths and illustrating the delineated inlet,buffer, filtration, and outlet zones;

FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevation view of one embodiment of theregenerative media filter of the present invention showing fluid pathsand illustrating the delineated inlet, buffer, filtration, and outletzones;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the regenerative media filter of FIG. 1illustrating such components as the filter shell or housing, the filterelements, the outlet plenum and the media revival cylinder mounted on aninnovative top flange;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view similar to that depicted in FIG. 4 andillustrating the bundle in position with the hold down plate being urgedinto contact with the cantilever section of the upper tank flange;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the entire bundle being moveddownwardly in the direction of arrow X;

FIG. 3C is a more detailed view showing the connection between theactuation rod and the hold down plate;

FIG. 3D relates to the concept of affixing a nanoscale barrier to aninterior surfaces of the regenerative media filter;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the tube sheet hold downplate seated against the upper flange cantilevered sealing surface,demonstrating flow from the influent side of the filter through theelements, across the tube sheet, into the filter effluent plenum and outthrough the filter effluent connection;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary cross sectional view of the tube sheethold down plate seated against the upper flange cantilevered sealingsurface, while delineating between filter elements and interstitialspaces between them;

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view like that shown in FIG. 5 butillustrating a different version of the tube sheet construction;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the upper tank flange/articulated bundle sealingsurface;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the sealing surface of theupper tank flange/articulated bundle sealing surface of FIG. 6 as takenalong line 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the lower tank flange/articulated bundle sealingstabilization surface;

FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the lower tank flange/articulatedbundle sealing stabilization surface of FIG. 8 as taken along line 9-9of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the tube sheet plate;

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of the tube sheet plate of FIG. 10 astaken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a top view of the hold down plate;

FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the hold down plate of FIG. 12taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a top view of the inlet tube;

FIG. 15 is a front view of the inlet tube of FIG. 14 cut away to showthe slots;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the inlet tube of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the inlet tube of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the inlet tube of FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the cylinder mounting flange;

FIG. 19 is a top view of the cylinder mounting flange of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the cylinder mounting flange ofFIG. 18 as taken along line 20-20 of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the cylinder mounting flange of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view similar to that depicted in FIG. 3Aand illustrating further details;

FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the element bundle;

FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of one of many possible permeablesingle layer filter elements;

FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of one of many possible embodiments ofa double layer filter element;

FIG. 24A is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment to thatshown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary and enlarged cross sectional view showing ingreater detail a portion of the filter element array as taken from aportion of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25A is a sectional view similar to that illustrated in FIG. 3A butadditionally including the bridging between filter elements;

FIG. 25B is an enlarged fragmentary view pertaining to FIG. 25A;

FIG. 25C is a sectional view similar to that illustrated in FIG. 3A andshowing spaced apart bridging members;

FIG. 25D is an enlarged fragmentary view related to the embodiment ofFIG. 25C;

FIG. 26 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the filter elementarray having a honeycomb construction;

FIG. 26A is a more detailed diagram showing the honeycomb array;

FIG. 26B shows still more detail of the honeycomb structure as betweenadjacent filter elements;

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary and enlarged cross sectional view of stillanother embodiment of the filter element array showing the filterelements as well as a series of bridge elements that together form theclosed interstitial spaces;

FIG. 27A is an enlarged view at adjacent ones of the filter elements inthe embodiment of FIG. 27;

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary view of another embodiment of the filterelement array;

FIG. 28A is a fragmentary enlarged view of the embodiment shown in FIG.28;

FIG. 28B shows more detail of the embodiment of FIG. 28;

FIG. 28C is an illustration arranged between adjacent filter elements inthe embodiment of FIG. 28B; and

FIGS. 29A to 29F are a series of schematic diagrams showing alternatearrangements for adjacent filter elements.

PRIOR ART DIAGRAM

Reference is now made to FIG. 1 where there is illustrated a typicalregenerative media filter 10. In the prior art construction there isillustrated a housing 13 mounted on legs 11 to facilitate piping thedrain 12 connection out of the bottom of the housing 13. Thisarrangement provides the inlet zone 14 of the filter as measured fromthe floor 15 to the center of the inlet nozzle 16. Fluid 17 enters theregenerative media filter at the inlet nozzle 16 and is typicallyturbulent and requiring a deep sump area 18 and buffer zone 19 totransform to a more laminar flow prior to engaging the filtration zone20 of the regenerative media filter 10.

The aforementioned fluid 17, carrying with it some particulatecontamination passes through the cake of regenerative media 21enveloping each one of the filter element 23 outer surfaces 22. Thefluid transitions from the higher pressure inlet side of the filter andpasses across the boundary of the filter element sheath 23 to the lowerpressure zone 24 of the filter. From the lower pressure side of thefilter element 23 it transitions toward the tube sheet 25.

The clean fluid collects in the outlet zone 26 on the way out of theregenerative media filter. It is in the outlet zone 26 where air tendsto collect at 27 due to the flat lid geometry of the design. It is alsoin the outlet zone 26 where prior art regenerative media filters aresusceptible to high pressure compressed air leaks due to the nature ofthe packing gland arrangement 28 that is disposed about the actuationrod 29; penetrating into the housing to move the tube sheet 25 down offof the stop ring 30 which defines the outlet zone 26 inside the housingacting as an outlet flange standoff.

The field of regenerative media filters suffers from inefficientplacement of the filtration elements relative to each other. The tankgeometry is therefore overly sized and inefficient.

Furthermore, this inefficient placement makes the filter susceptible toturbulence, which negatively affects the filtration efficiency.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention the regenerative media filteris constructed to optimize the overall size of the filter per unit offluid filtered and achieves this by optimizing multiple variablessimultaneously, Refer in particular to FIG. 2 that illustrates aregenerative media filter in accordance with the present inventionindicated generally at 32. These variables include, among possible othervariables, the diameter of the filter elements 31; the planar spacing ofthe elements 31; the volume of regenerative media 33 that is depositedon the outer surface 40 of the filter elements 31; the resultantinterstitial free space S (refer, for example, to the embodiment shownin FIG. 25) when the filter elements 31 are coated with the filtrationmedia 33; the shell diameter of the filter housing 34; the height andvolume of the inlet zone 35; the height and volume of the buffer zone36; and the height and volume of the filtration zone 37 of theregenerative media filter. As in accordance with the present invention,by comparing FIGS. 1 and 2 it can be seen that the inlet and bufferzones in the embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in FIG.2 is significantly smaller than the like zones illustrated in FIG. 1.

With further reference to FIG. 2, a path is shown for fluid flowdepicted at 47. Fluid path 47 enters the regenerative media filter atthe inlet nozzle N and is directed into a wide and relatively shallowinlet zone area 35 and relatively shallow buffer zone 36 to thereaftertransform into a more laminar flow prior to engaging the filtration zone37 of the regenerative media filter 34.

The aforementioned fluid path 47 carries with it some particulatecontamination that passes through a resultant filtration structure madeup of individual filtration elements 31 arranged within a containmentvessel such that when the particulate filtration media 33 uniformlycoats the filtration elements 31, via flow and Bernoulli's Principle,the individual filter elements form a unified filtration structure ofthe form of a highly efficient honeycomb type structure, such as shown,by way of example, in FIGS. 22 and 25. The honeycomb type filter arraywith interstitial free spaces S provides the geometric optimizationpreviously described. This fluid path 47 passes through the cake ofregenerative media 33 enveloping each one of the filter elements outersurfaces 40 from the higher pressure inlet side of the filter andpassing across the boundary of the element sheath 41 of each filterelement 31 to the lower pressure zone 42 of the filter and makes its waytowards the tube sheet 43.

The cleaned fluid collects in the outlet zone 44 on the way out of theregenerative media filter. It is in the outlet zone where all entrainedair is captured and exhausted out through a port at the highest point ofthe dome 51. It is also in the outlet zone 44 where prior artregenerative media filters are susceptible to high pressure compressedair leaks, but due to the novel construction of the present inventionthe fluid is effectively discharged. In this regard refer to FIG. 3 thatshows an exploded view of the regenerative media filter of FIG. 2illustrating such components as the filter shell or housing, the filterelements, the outlet plenum and the media revival cylinder mounted on aninnovative flange mechanism 60. This flange mechanism seals the tankfrom the compressed air actuation cylinder 45 simultaneouslyfacilitating the actuation rod 46 penetration into the housing toarticulate the tube sheet 43 down off of the sealing surface 50 whichdefines the outlet zone inside the housing acting as a demarcationsurface.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the regenerative media filter of FIG. 1illustrating such components as the filter shell or housing, the filterelements, the outlet plenum and the media revival cylinder mounted on aninnovative top flange. FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view ofthe tube sheet hold down plate seated against the upper flangecantilevered sealing surface, demonstrating flow from the influent sideof the filter through the elements, across the tube sheet, into thefilter effluent plenum and out through the filter effluent connection.FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary cross sectional view of the tube sheethold down plate 52 seated against the upper flange cantilevered sealingsurface 59, while delineating between filter elements and interstitialspaces between them.

In the exploded view of FIG. 3 there is shown the housing 34 and theinlet flow at N. At the inlet zone 35 the fluid to be filtered entersand passes through the buffer zone 36 to the filtration zone 37. A sightglass or port R may be provided at the housing 34 as depicted in FIGS. 2and 3. In FIG. 3 the filter element bundle or array is articulated bythe cylinder 45 and actuation rod 46 with an up and down action thatsheds the filter media 33 from the individual filter elements of thefilter array. Refer also to more detail provided in FIGS. 4 and 5 of theoverall construction. The components further include a tube sheet 43that is the main planar support for all of the filter elements 31, ahold down plate 52 for holding the tube sheet in place, a lower tankflange 53, and an upper tank flange 54.

In FIG. 3 the filter element bundle or array is articulated by thecylinder 45 in an up and down direction to shed the filter media that isdeposited about the filter elements. FIG. 3 also shows the seal and holddown plate where a sealing surface 50 is provided between the hold downplate and the upper tank flange. This sealing structure delineatesbetween the clean plenum area and the dirty inlet/buffer/filtrationzones. FIG. 3 also illustrates the inflow by arrow B and the outflow byarrow A. The flanging arrangement is open at one end to receive thecontaminated influent, hermetically welded to the filter shelf withperforations along the access of the tube designed to direct thecontaminated influent in such a way as to minimize the volumetricdimensions of the inlet zone 35 and the buffer zone 36 to eliminateturbulence reaching the filtration zone 37. Regarding FIG. 3, it isnoted that there is a height above the left wall of the outlet tube thatwould trap air if one were to fill this filter with water from thebottom to the top. However, the innovative cylinder mounting flange sitsat the apex of the filter, and the machined groove on the lower leftquadrant of FIG. 21, leading to the machined outlet as viewed on theleft half of the sectional view of FIG. 20, allows the trapped air toescape. This same connection facilitates evacuation of the filter forthe purpose of replenishing the filter media (media notation of FIG. 3).

Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A to 3C. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectionalview similar to that depicted in FIG. 4 and illustrating the bundle 72in position wherein the hold down plate 52 is urged into contact withthe cantilever section 55 of the upper tank flange 54. FIG. 3A alsoshows the connection of the actuation rod 46 which is controlled fromthe cylinder 45. The actuation rod 46 is supported by the flangemechanism 60 that is described in FIGS. 18-21. In FIG. 3A the rod 46supports the hold down plate 52 by means of the U-shaped bracket 67. Theend of the rod 46 connects to the bracket 67 by means of a pin 68 andassociated cotter pin. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, a bolt 69 is also usedfor securing the bracket 67 with the hold down plate 52. Other securingmechanisms and fasteners may be used as long as the rod 46 is securedwith the hold down plate. In this way, the actuation of the rod 46 cantransition the filter element bundle 72 between the position shown inFIG. 3A and the position shown in FIG. 3B.

With regard to the flange mechanism 60, reference is also madehereinafter to FIG. 21A. This flange mechanism 60 supports the actuationrod 46 and also provides an escape path by way of the port 62 so thatentrained air within the dome 51 can escape from the housing. In FIG. 3Athe rod 46 is shown in a more proximal position whereby the sealingsurface 50 of the hold down plate 52 is urged against the cantilever 55of the upper tank flange 54. When it is desired to clean the filter, theentire bundle is moved downwardly in the direction of arrow X in FIG.3B. FIG. 3B thus shows the actuator rod 46 in a more distal positionwith the sealing surface 50 of the hold down plate 52 now separated fromthe surface 59 of the cantilever section 55 of the upper tank flange 54.

One aspect of the present invention with regard to the diagramillustrated in FIG. 3D. This relates to affixing a nanoscale barrier Pto the interior surfaces of the regenerative media filter and housing.This nanoscale barrier P may be applied by spraying or other technique.For illustrative purposes, we have shown the interior of the shell wallin FIG. 3D. However, that nanoscale barrier might be applied to allsurfaces, including that of the regenerative media itself, providing amechanism to disrupt the cell wall of microscopic viruses and organismsthat would otherwise grow and breed in the influent side of the filter.This nanoscale barrier P serves to reduce the load of chemicals and UVpower levels so as to achieve safe biological control within the watersystem while providing a substantial reduction in cost.

Regarding the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 4 and 5 there isillustrated the housing 34. The top edge of the housing 34 is supportedat the lower tank flange 53. An O-ring 58 is preferably provided betweenthe upper and lower tank flanges 53 and 54. A bolt 57 or the like isused for securing the upper and lower tank flanges together in a sealedrelative manner.

FIG. 5A illustrates a portion of the tube sheet 43 and the hold downplate 52. FIG. 5A also illustrates a cap screw 48 that may be used forsecuring together the tube sheet plate 43 and the hold down plate 52.FIGS. 10 and 12 illustrate, by smaller diameter circles, the placementsof possible cap screws for securing the plates 43 and 52 together. FIG.5A also illustrates one embodiment of the filter element as will bedescribed in more detail in FIG. 24. The filter element is shown asincluding an outer sheath 84 and a spring 85 that supports the overallcontour of the sheath. At the top of the sheath 84 there is provided aflange 86. Once again, refer to FIG. 24 for an illustration of theflange 86. The flange 86 is captured between the hold down plate 52 andthe tube sheet plate 43. FIG. 5A also illustrates the top edge of thehousing 34 as engaged with the lower tank flange 53.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the upper tank flange/articulated bundle sealingsurface. FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the sealingsurface of the upper tank flange/articulated bundle sealing surface ofFIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a top view of the lower tank flange/articulated bundlesealing stabilization surface. FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of thelower tank flange/articulated bundle sealing stabilization surface ofFIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a top view of the tube sheet plate. FIG. 11 is across sectional view of the tube sheet plate of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is atop view of the hold down plate. FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view ofthe hold down plate of FIG. 12. The hold down plate is arranged tomaintain all the filter elements in a fixed relative position. The holddown plate also functions as an inverted tube sheet in that fluid thatpasses through its holes is clean as it passes through the filter media.

Reference is now made to the inlet nozzle construction in accordancewith the present invention. FIGS. 14-17A illustrate the inlet tube ornozzle N that is configured to direct flow away from the filter elementbundle thus assisting in maintaining the proper flow and controlledturbulence. For this purpose, the nozzle N is provided with a series ofslots Ni that are spaced apart and that are disposed along a bottomcircumference. These are depicted in the view of FIG. 15 as well as inthe side view of FIG. 16 and the bottom view of FIG. 17. Each of theseslots extend about a minor radius and on the bottom are separated by awall. In this way, the inward flow is directed somewhat sideways butfrom opposite sides of the nozzle.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 18-21 that illustrate the flangemechanism 60 while FIG. 21A illustrates the positioning of the flangemechanism 60 relative to the dome 51 and the actuator 45. This cylindermechanism 60 eliminates essentially 100% of the entrained air from thefilter and is integrated into the cylinder mounting flange. FIG. 18 is aside view of the cylinder mounting flange. FIG. 19 is a top view of thecylinder mounting flange of FIG. 18. FIG. 20 is a cross sectional viewof the cylinder mounting flange of FIG. 18. FIG. 21 is a bottom view ofthe cylinder mounting flange of FIG. 18. In FIG. 21A the actuator 45 isshown as a block but it is understood that any type of an actuationmechanism may be provided that allows an articulation of the actuationrod 46 (up and down motion). The flange mechanism 60 is also referred toas a cylinder mounting flange and its basic function is to provide aseal with the actuation rod 46 while at the same time allowing, throughport 62 the escape of entrained air that is provided within the dome 51.As indicated in FIG. 21A, for this purpose there may be provided a sealat location 63 and a seal at location 64 both of which will provide asealing action between the mechanism 60 and the actuation rod 46. Eachof the seals 63, 64 may be formed by an O-ring seal. A further seal maybe provided at 66 in FIG. 21A and could be in the form of another O-ringor the like.

FIGS. 22 and 25 illustrate an important feature of the present inventionin one particular embodiment. This embodiment provides filter elementsthat are relatively closely spaced apart but includes bridging membersB. This bridging comes about by the particular geometry that isselected. This provides a novel surface area significantly differentthan that provided in the prior art. In this embodiment it is desiredthat all filter elements have a bridge component so that in its entiretythe filter array functions as a monolithic structure with all filterelements essentially connected as a single unit. It is noted that in theprior art filter elements are supported independent of and spacedrelative to each other and are usually spaced apart at least the widthof a predetermined filter element.

Reference is now made to the improved filter element bundle or array 70shown in FIG. 22, and a more detailed view in FIG. 25 of a limitednumber of the filter elements 72. Unlike filter elements of the priorart, in accordance with the present invention the array is a series offilter elements 72 that are disposed with a closed interstitial space Sprovided between adjacent filter elements 72. This interstitial space Sis formed in the embodiment of FIG. 22 by means of bridging elements ormembers B that, with the outer surfaces of adjacent filter elements 72provide a closed interstitial space S. In the embodiment of FIG. 22 theinterstitial space S is somewhat triangular and is essentially disposedbetween three adjacent filter elements 72 with the adjacent filterelements being interconnected by bridging members or elements B.

Reference is now made to the embodiment shown in FIG. 23 as far as aconstruction of a filter element is concerned. This describes a singlelayer filter structure and may be considered as in the form of a longthimble formed out of window screen, or printed using additivemanufacturing techniques. It would be permeable and essentially rigid atthe same time. The structure also would not require an internal supportstructure in order to maintain vertical rigidity nor diametric rigidity;thus resisting collapse from differential pressures. The regenerativemedia will cake on the outer surface of the structure and collectentrained particles as the fluid passes through the media cakeprogressing up through the filter element and out through the tubesheet. The filter element or sheath 80 may be fused at 82 to close thesheath, and furthermore has a top flange 81. Refer also to FIG. 5Ashowing how the flange is used to secure the filter element relative tothe tube sheet.

Reference is now made to the embodiment shown in FIG. 24 as far asanother construction of a filter element is concerned. Thus, FIG. 24illustrates the use of a spring 85 associated with an outer sheath 84.The spring 85 may be a cylindrical shaped coil spring structure. Thespring is formed, so that when fitted within the sheath, it will passthrough a close tolerance hole in the tube sheet up to the pancake woundupper section 83. The spring 85 may be pre-loaded and thus serves tostretch the sheath and keep the diameter true for the entire length. Thespring 85 also resists collapse when differential pressures act on thefilter media across the boundary zone. The sheath may be fused at 86 toclose the sheath over the pre-loaded spring 85.

Reference is now made to another embodiment of the filter element asshown in FIG. 24A. This describes an alternate embodiment of the filterelement. This describes a sheath 87 that may be provided with a topflange 90 so as to secure the filter element in a proper positionrelative to the tube sheet. Within the sheath 88, there is provided asupport structure 89 that, in a cross-section, is an asterisk orstar-shaped. This structure may also be formed of window screen or canbe a printed product. The material is permeable while at the same timehaving some level of rigidity.

Reference is now made to the embodiment of the filter element as shownin FIGS. 22 and 25. FIG. 25 is a fragmentary and enlarged crosssectional view showing in greater detail a portion of the filter elementarray as taken from a portion of FIG. 22. Thus, there is provided animproved filter element bundle or array 70 shown in FIG. 22, and a moredetailed view in FIG. 25 of a limited number of the filter elements 72.With the present invention the array is a series of filter elements 72that are disposed with a closed interstitial space S provided betweenadjacent filter elements 72. This interstitial space S is formed in theembodiment of FIG. 25 by means of bridging elements or members B that,with the outer surfaces of adjacent filter elements 72 provide a closedinterstitial space S. In the embodiment of FIG. 25 each interstitialspace S is somewhat triangular and is essentially disposed between threeadjacent filter elements 72 with the adjacent filter elements beinginterconnected by bridging members or elements B.

Reference is also now made to FIGS. 25A-25D that illustrate furtherdetail and that the bridging members B are now actually illustrated asconnected between adjacent filter elements 31. In the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 25A and 25B a single elongated bridging member B isillustrated as extending the entire length of each filter element 31. Inthe embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 25C and 25D, separate bridgingmembers B are employed. As illustrated in FIG. 25C, these bridgingmembers may be spaced apart along the length of each filter element.FIG. 25D shows a single one of the bridging members B connectingadjacent filter element 31.

FIG. 26 is a fragmentary view of another filter element configurationwherein the filter elements are formed in a honeycomb structure. In FIG.26 the honeycomb structure is shown somewhat schematically withoutillustrating any element wall thickness, but showing the generalstructure. The filter elements 72 depicted in FIG. 26 are each ofhexagonal shape and are arranged in a honeycomb pattern. As each of thefilter elements have to be pre-coated with a filter media, in a workableembodiment there would be interstitial spaces provided between each ofthe hexagonal elements, such as illustrated in FIG. 26A and describedhereinafter. Thus, some of the hexagons illustrated in FIG. 26 areprovided with filter elements having a space surrounding the filterelements. If one sizes the elements in combination with the planardisplacement of the holes for FIGS. 10-13, one could alternativelyeffect round roles or geometrically matched holes to the shape of thefilter element (i.e., hex for hex, round for round, square for square,star for star, etc.). One must keep in mind that the construction is inthe form of a “sandwich” of FIG. 12 onto FIG. 10 thus capturing theflange of the element, via a formed surface as in FIG. 23 or a “woundcore” surface as depicted in FIG. 24 and as long as the flange will notfit through the member in FIG. 10 and the hole in FIG. 12 iscorrespondingly sized to seal the elements forcing the fluids to passthrough the filter media.

FIG. 26A illustrates a more pragmatic structure of the filter elementsas has been illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 26 and isin the form of a honeycomb structure. FIG. 26A provides some additionaldetail by further illustrating the application of the media layer at M.The media layer is thus disposed between each of the facing sides ofrespective filter elements 72.

Refer now to a further detail in FIG. 26B. This figure provides evenmore detail for the arrangement that is illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 26A.The filter media M would, of course, be disposed between each of theadjacent filter elements 72. In FIG. 26B, for the sake of simplicity,only two of the adjacent filter elements 72 are illustrated. Each ofthese filter elements may be considered as having some wall thickness asidentified in FIG. 26B by the reference number T. FIG. 26B alsoillustrates the interstitial space S1 which is essentially disposedbetween facing surfaces of the respective filter elements 72. FIG. 26Balso illustrates by simple cross hatching the location where the filtermedia is disposed essentially between facing walls of respective filterelements 72.

Reference is now made to a different embodiment illustrated in FIG. 27.This describes another honeycomb arrangement in which a series of sixfilter elements 73 are arranged about a center closed interstitial spaceS1 defined by a center filter element. This essentially combines thefunction of a honeycomb structure with one in which a closedinterstitial space is furthermore provided. Regarding the constructionof FIG. 27, one could provide intermittent squares and circles as longas the following applies.

1. It exhibits point contact.

2. Provide a surface to coat with regenerative media.

3. Exhibits a packing density that results in interstices by which fluidmay channel to fully access the complete height of the element, andessentially the opposite of what is demonstrated in FIG. 26 whereby theelements are in intimate contact with essentially zero interstices.

Thus, FIG. 27 describes the filter element 73 of hexagonal shape as wellas a series of bridge elements B that together form the closedinterstitial spaces S1. In this regard, one may also make reference to,for example, FIG. 2 of the present application wherein fluid flow isillustrated by means of the dashed arrows 47. Although this interstitialspace S1 is illustrated as being closed, it is open at its bottom endbut forms an enclosed structure that enables the fluid to pass throughthis interstitial space and through the filter media into the interiorof each filter element. Although the filter elements depicted in FIG. 27are hexagonal, these filter elements can be of various different shapesincluding circular, oval and star-shaped. The top of each space S1 ispreferably closed off.

FIG. 27A provides some further detail for the particular embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 27 and showing only a limited numberof filter elements 72. Each of the filter elements 72 may be constructedas illustrated in FIG. 27A each having a wall thickness T. FIG. 27A alsoillustrates the bridging connection B that is formed between adjacentfacing walls of respective filter elements. This bridging and the filterelements themselves defines an interstitial space S1. In this space themedia layer coating is provided as illustrated by the reference numberM. Each bridging member B may be a physical wall structure that extendsbetween facing walls that define each filter element 73.

FIG. 28 depicts a different type of honeycomb structure of the filterelements in which certain ones of the filter elements have a square orrectangular cross-section and other ones of the filter element arecircular as clearly illustrated in FIG. 28. Where the square elementsabut the circular elements, there is a bridging as indicated at B inFIG. 28. This bridging, along with the filter elements, forms the closedinterstitial spaces S1. For example, one interstitial space S1 may bedemarcated by adjacent square filter elements and one of the circularfilter elements. This bridging may be simply in the form of a connectionpoint between the filter elements or could be a small interconnectingwall. FIG. 28 also shows media caking at M but only in one illustratedarea. Of course this media caking would cover all interior areasdemarcated by the interstitial spaces S1.

FIG. 28A is a fragmentary enlarged view of the embodiment shown in FIG.28. FIG. 28B shows more detail of the embodiment of FIG. 28. FIG. 28C isan illustration arranged between adjacent filter elements in theembodiment of FIG. 28B. FIGS. 28A through 28C depict further detailsrelating to the version of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 28wherein different shapes of adjacent filter elements are provided. Thisincludes a substantially square filter element that has a contactlocation relative to a circular filter element. It is the location wherethe circular filter element is essentially tangential to the squarefilter element where the bridge member B is located. Refer to FIG. 28for an illustration of the location of the bridging member B. In thedepiction of FIG. 28C, an actual small physical bridging element B isprovided so that there is physical contact or connection between theadjacent filter elements 74. These added figures also illustrate thelocation of the media layer M, particularly in FIG. 28C, and thecorresponding wall thicknesses T of the respective filter elements. InFIG. 28C there is actually illustrated a small wall between adjacentfilter elements defining the bridge element B.

In accordance with the present invention, and regarding the overallfilter element bundle, the “bridging” can be provided in one or moreways. For the most part, in the illustrated embodiments herein, thebridging B is formed by a physical connection between adjacent filterelements. Refer, for example, to FIG. 27A. In other embodiments of thepresent invention, the bridging may occur by virtue of a contact area orlocation between adjacent filter elements with or without a physicalconnection. In this regard refer to, for example, FIG. 28 wherein thebridge members are considered to be formed by a physical contact, suchas where the round filter element is tangential to the square filterelement. Lastly, refer to the more detailed view of FIG. 26B where nophysical bridge is used, but due to the close proximity of adjacentfilter elements the overall filter element bundle forms as a monolithicstructure.

Reference is now made to respective schematic diagrams shown in FIGS.29A through 29F. The diagrams shown in FIGS. 29A through 29C providesome further detail regarding the interface between adjacent filterelements 72 for essentially three different versions. This relates tothe structure shown in FIG. 25 where all filter elements are circular incross-section. FIG. 29A shows the filter elements touching at a contactpoint at B. FIG. 29B has the filter elements with a spacing Gtherebetween. FIG. 29C has the adjacent filter element 72 connected bythe physical bridge structure B. Reference is now also made to FIGS. 29Dthrough 29F which relate essentially to the embodiment in FIG. 28wherein the filter elements 74 alternate between cylindrical and squarefilter elements. These figures illustrate different interfaces betweenadjacent filter elements. FIG. 29 D shows a joining by a touching atlocation B between the filter elements. Because one of the filterelements is circular in cross-section, the touching is essentially at asubstantially single point location where the square filter elements isessentially tangential to the circular filter element. FIG. 29Eillustrates the filter elements separated by a spacing or gap G. FIG.29F illustrates the filter elements physically interconnected by abridge member B. FIGS. 29A through 29F also illustrate the area of theinterstitial spacing; the media material M; and the bridge members B.

With respect to FIG. 27A this illustrates a physical bridge B betweenadjacent filter elements while FIG. 28A shows a touching at location Bbetween adjacent filter elements. For the instance, such as shown inFIG. 26B where adjacent filter elements are spaced apart as indicated atS1 in FIG. 26B there is a critical spacing that, while occurring, has tobe in relatively close proximity to each other in order to maintain amonolithic structure, and to furthermore provide a structure toessentially inhibit fluid turbulence.

In the case illustrated in FIGS. 29B and 29E, there are provided closelyspaced filter elements, but filter elements that are not bridged or incontact. From initial experiments, it has been determined that the gapbetween adjacent filter elements is less than a width of the filterelement. It has furthermore been found that between adjacent filterelements, there is a maximum tangential geometric proximity of ⅕ theminimum cross-sectional distance across a single filter element, orless. This arrangement provides a sufficiently monolithic structure thatdefeats turbulence in a manner similar to that provided with the use ofa bridging or contact element. Regarding the term “tangential geometricproximity” this is considered to be the measured distance between theclosest tangents of two adjacent filter elements in their nominalunperturbed state. Thus, by way of example, if a particular filterelement has a diameter of say X millimeters, then the spacing betweenadjacent filter elements has to be ⅕ X or less. This provides for atight monolithic structure even without physical bridging elementsbetween adjacent filter elements.

Features and Additional Aspects

1. This invention optimizes the relationship between a) the diameter ofthe filter elements b) the planar spacing of the elements c) the volumeof regenerative media d) the resultant interstitial free space when thefilter elements are coated with filtration media e) the shell diameterof the filter housing, f) the height and “zones” of the regenerativemedia filter.2. This invention has a resultant filtration structure made up ofindividual filtration elements arranged within a containment vessel suchthat when the particulate filtration media uniformly coats thefiltration elements via flow and Bernoulli's Principle, the unifiedfiltration structure is that of a highly efficient honeycomb structure.Refer to FIGS. 26, 26A, and 26B.3. The individual filtration elements and their individual effectivesurface areas combine differently in this invention than that of currentstate-of-the-art filters because of the optimized design of therelational aspects of the elements and the intelligent, intentionalbridging that takes place. The bridge itself is a new surface area thata) increases the effective surface area and b) the stability of thefiltration zone, which c) enables a decrease in the size of theeffective filter buffer zones of the filter beyond what the existingstate-of-the-art filters deploy.4. The cross sectional profile of the elements are not fixed, butvariable.5. The relative distance of the elements to each other are not fixed,but variable.6. The particulate size of the filtration media is not fixed, butvariable.7. Each of the three aforementioned variables is sized in considerationof the filtrate such that there will be a resultant honeycomb structureto maximize the efficiency of the filtration system.8. By highly optimizing the filtration zone of the invention, the otherzones can be optimized as well. Current state-of-the-art filters mustemploy sloppy and excessive buffer zones. This invention essentiallyeliminates random element turbulence.9. Additional improvement was effected by articulating the tube sheetelement assembly by means of a self-contained cylinder, which has apiston attached to a shaft that penetrates the tank through a sealarrangement that is inherently safe in that any leakage from the powerside of the cylinder, be it air or hydraulically operated, will leak toatmosphere and not to the process fluid as is the risk of the currentstate-of-the-art regenerative media filters. Refer to FIGS. 3 and 3A.10. Full capture and removal of entrained air. Refer to the escape port62 in FIGS. 3A and 21A.11. Reduced height of the influent and effluent connections due to theoptimization of the overall filter results in energy savings.12. Reduction in the filter footprint reduces the cost of the buildingrequired to house the filter.13. The structure of the filtration element is innovative such that theyare of two types: double layer or single layer.14. Unlike current state-of-the-art elements which utilize 5 or moreparts to form one filtration element (washer, grommet, support core,sheath, plug) this element uses a hollow, permeable sheath that will beinnovatively sealed at either end by means of fusing the sheath (filterelement) material. Fusion may occur by heating such that the sheathfusion welds to itself, sonic welding, chemical bonding with anon-residual activator (as in the case of catalytic molecular bonding ofplastics) or any other means to bond the sheath upon itself leaving onlya sheath and a support core, not an additional item. Refer to FIGS. 23,24 and 24A15. Alternatively, in the case of a double later element, one or bothlayers may be manufactured using additive manufacturing such as 3Dprinting. In this way, a selectively permeable sheath is printed on theoutside of a support core, with one end sealed and the other constructedsuch that the interface will seal against undesirable bypass ofunfiltered medium to filtered medium.16. Double layer filtration elements are constructed with only a supportcore and a sheath. The support core may be preloaded to effect astraightening force on the sheath. In order to maximize the packingdensity of the filter elements, while at the same time facilitating evencoating of the regenerative filter media, a series of well placed“spacing maintainers” may be designed into the elements. In the case ofa compression spring-like wound helix that may be pre-compressed tomaintain a taught sheath and prevent differential pressure collapse asthe filter element becomes loaded with filtrate, nominally wounddiameter with staggered or equally spaced larger coils maintain properspacing in the honeycomb structure previously described.17. Double layer filtration elements will necessarily have one end opento the boundary layer such that the filtered material passes throughfrom the unfiltered zone to the filtered zone. That boundary may be atraditional tube sheet, or it may mimic the capillary system in a livingorganism, whereby the filtered material passes through the element andinto a collection zone that transports the filtered material to aprogressively larger transport trunk, not unlike the human arteries, asopposed to the current state-of-the-art tube sheet boundary filtrationmodel.18. Double layer filter elements may be formed from permeable materialthat is wound and then bonded or formed into any number of geometricforms that are either a) advantageous to some containment system b)specific to the material being filtered c) specific to the nature of thefiltered contaminant d) advantageous to the designed differentialpressures of the filter zones e) velocity of the filtered media f)viscosity of the filtered media g) bulk density of the filtered media19. Double layer filter elements may be formed such that the inner layeris hollow and is filled with a gas, the temperature of which iscontrolled separately from the media being filtered and mayadvantageously affect filtration performance (i.e. creating a zone inclose proximity to the filtration boundary layer where solublecontaminant precipitates out and is collected in the filtration boundarylayer).20. Alternatively, single layer filter elements are designed to satisfyall of the characteristics of multiple layer filter elements (rigidity,permeability, ease of cleaning/revival by flushing or counter currentmovement within a fixed or moving stream, spacing, surface area ratio)while manufactured in one of a number of ways.21. The single layer filter elements may be of a semi rigid permeablematerial (such as wire cloth that has been formed and fusion sealed onone end and formed to seal against bypass on the other end.22. The single layer filter elements may be manufactured by additivemanufacturing techniques such as 3D printing or other methods such asanode/cathode growth on a formed mandrel in a solution carrying therequisite elements.23. Single layer filter elements will necessarily have one end open tothe boundary layer such that the filtered material passes through fromthe unfiltered zone to the filtered zone. That boundary may be atraditional tube sheet, or it may mimic the capillary system in a livingorganism, whereby the filtered material passes through the element andinto a collection zone that transports the filtered material to aprogressively larger transport trunk, not unlike the human arteries, asopposed to the state-of-the-art tube sheet filtration model.24. Single layer filter elements may be formed from permeable materialthat is wound and then bonded or formed into any number of geometricforms that are either a) advantageous to some containment system b)specific to the material being filtered c) specific to the nature of thefiltered contaminant d) advantageous to the designed differentialpressures of the filter zones e) velocity of the filtered media f)viscosity of the filtered media g) bulk density of the filtered media.

The foregoing is only preferred embodiments of the present invention, itis not intended to limit the present invention, any modifications withinthe spirit and principles of the present invention, made, equivalentreplacement, or improvement should be included in the within the scopeof the present invention.

The above descriptions only relate to the preferred embodiments of thisinvention, and do not restrict this invention. All the modifications,equivalent substitutions and improvements made based on spirit andprinciple of this invention are included in the protective range of thisinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A regenerative filter comprising: a filterhousing having inlet and outlet zones; a fluid path provided between theinlet and outlet zones; a plurality of filter elements each having anouter surface filter media applied thereto and functioning to filterparticulate or contaminants from the fluid path; said plurality offilter elements being disposed in an upright parallel array; and aninlet nozzle that is disposed within the filter housing at the inletzone and that is constructed and arranged so as to direct the fluid pathaway from the plurality of filter elements so as to assist inmaintaining a controlled turbulence at the inlet zone; wherein the inletnozzle comprises an inlet tube having one end where the fluid flowenters the inlet tube from outside the filter housing; wherein the inlettube is enclosed but includes at least one exit slot that directs thefluid flow downward away from the plurality of filter elements; andwherein the at least one slot includes a pair of arcuate slots at thelower area of the inlet tube separated by a bottom wall so that thefluid flow is directed partially sideways from opposite sides of theinlet tube.
 2. The regenerative filter of claim 1 wherein each of thefilter elements has an elongated side surface and a length that isgreater than a cross-sectional width of each of the filter elements; andwherein any adjacently disposed filter elements are arranged in one ofcontact or close proximity between side surfaces of the respectivefilter elements.
 3. The regenerative filter of claim 1 wherein the inlettube is round and the pair of arcuate slots are disposed at a lower areaof the inlet tube.
 4. The regenerative filter of claim 1 including asecond pair of spaced apart pairs of slots with second pair of spacedapart pairs of slots being spaced from one another.
 5. The regenerativefilter of claim 4 wherein each of the slots extends circumferentiallyabout a minor radius at the lower area of the inlet tube.
 6. Aregenerative filter comprising: a filter housing having inlet and outletzones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones; aplurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter mediaapplied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminantsfrom the fluid path; a tube sheet that is supported across the filterhousing, that is disposed just before the outlet zone and that providesa support for the plurality of filter elements; said plurality of filterelements being disposed in an array that defines an interstitial spacethat is disposed between adjacent filter elements; and an inlet nozzlethat is disposed within the filter housing at the inlet zone and that isconstructed and arranged so as to direct the fluid path away from theplurality of filter elements so as to assist in maintaining a controlledturbulence at the inlet zone; wherein the inlet nozzle comprises aninlet tube having one end where the fluid flow enters the inlet tubefrom outside the filter housing; wherein the inlet tube is enclosed butincludes at least one exit slot that directs the fluid flow downwardaway from the plurality of filter elements; wherein the inlet tube has acylindrical body, and the at least one slot is positioned in a sidewallof the cylindrical body, and wherein the at least one slot is positionedfacing a bottom surface of the housing.
 7. The regenerative filter ofclaim 6 wherein each of the filter elements has an elongated sidesurface and a length that is greater than a cross-sectional width ofeach of the filter elements; and wherein any filter elements that areadjacently disposed are arranged in one of contact or close proximitybetween side surfaces of the respective adjacently disposed filterelements.
 8. The regenerative filter of claim 6 wherein the inlet tubeextends through a sidewall of the filter housing and includes the atleast one slot that directs the fluid how downward away from theplurality of filter elements array.
 9. The regenerative filter of claim6 wherein the inlet tube has a second pair of spaced apart slotsseparated by a bottom wall and constructed and arranged so as to directthe fluid path downward away from the plurality of filter elements so asto assist in maintaining a controlled turbulence at the inlet zone. 10.A regenerative filter comprising: a filter housing having inlet andoutlet zones; a fluid path provided between the inlet and outlet zones;a plurality of filter elements each having an outer surface filter mediaapplied thereto and functioning to filter particulate or contaminantsfrom the fluid path; a tube sheet that is supported across the filterhousing, that is disposed just before the outlet zone and that providesa support for the plurality of filter elements; said plurality of filterelements being disposed in an array that defines an interstitial spacethat is disposed between adjacent filter elements; and an inlet nozzlethat is disposed within the filter housing at the inlet zone and that isconstructed and arranged so as to direct the fluid path away from theplurality of filter elements so as to assist in maintaining a controlledturbulence at the inlet zone; wherein the inlet tube extends through asidewall of the filter housing and includes at least one exit slot thatdirects the fluid flow downward away from the plurality of filterelements; wherein the exit slot defines a pair of spaced apart slotsseparated by a bottom wall and constructed and arranged so as to directthe fluid path downward away from the plurality of filter elements so asto assist in maintaining a controlled turbulence at the inlet zone;wherein the inlet tube has a second pair of slots that are disposed in aspaced apart manner longitudinally of the inlet tube.
 11. Theregenerative filter of claim 10 wherein the inlet tube has an inflow endand an opposed end, the filter housing has one sidewall section and another opposed sidewall section, and the inflow end of the inlet tube isdisposed outside of one sidewall section while the opposed end of theinlet tube is disposed within the inlet zone but spaced from the othersidewall section.
 12. A regenerative filter comprising: a filter housinghaving inlet and outlet zones; a fluid path provided between the inletand outlet zones; a plurality of filter elements each having an outersurface filter media applied thereto and functioning to filterparticulate or contaminants from the fluid path; a tube sheet that issupported across the filter housing, that is disposed just before theoutlet zone and that provides a support for the plurality of filterelements; said plurality of filter elements being disposed in an arraywherein adjacent filter elements are disposed in a monolithic array inwhich adjacent filter elements are disposed in close relative proximity,but defining a gap therebetween; and an inlet nozzle that is disposedwithin the filter housing at the inlet zone and that is constructed andarranged so as to direct the fluid path away from the plurality offilter elements so as to assist in maintaining a controlled turbulenceat the inlet zone; wherein the inlet nozzle has a pair of spaced apartslots separated by a bottom wall and constructed and arranged so as todirect the fluid path downward away from the plurality of filterelements so as to assist in maintaining a controlled turbulence at theinlet zone; wherein the inlet nozzle comprises an inlet tube having oneend where the fluid flow enters the inlet tube from outside the filterhousing; wherein the inlet tube is enclosed but includes at least oneexit slot that directs the fluid flow downward away from the pluralityof filter elements; and further comprising a bottom wall proximate theat least one slot that bifurcates input flow so that fluid flow isdirected respectively sideways from opposite sides of the inlet tube,wherein the inlet tube has a cylindrical body, and the at least one slotis positioned in a sidewall of the cylindrical body.
 13. Theregenerative filter of claim 12 wherein the adjacent filter elementshave different geometries.
 14. The regenerative filter of claim 13wherein some of the filter elements are circular and other ones of thefilter elements are square.
 15. The regenerative filter of claim 12wherein the gap between adjacent filter elements is less than a width ofthe filter element.
 16. The regenerative filter of claim 12 whereinthere is a maximum tangential geometric proximity of ⅕ the minimumcross-sectional distance across a single filter element, or less,between adjacent filter elements.
 17. The regenerative filter of claim12 wherein some of the filter elements are circular and other ones ofthe filter elements are square, rectangular or hexagonal.
 18. Theregenerative filter of claim 12 including a second set of spaced apartpairs of slots on the inlet tube with the pairs of slots being spacedfrom one another.
 19. The regenerative filter of claim 18 wherein eachof the spaced apart pairs of slots on the inlet tube extendscircumferentially about a minor radius at the lower area of the inlettube.